Adams, John Quincy (1767-1848) to J.T. and D. Sargent, Jr.
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00149 Author/Creator: Adams, John Quincy (1767-1848) Place Written: The Hague Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 24 May 1795 Pagination: 1 p. : address : docket ; 23 x 19 cm. Order a Copy
Writes his friends a playful letter commenting on his friends' single status, Boston, and their correspondence. Dated in different colored ink "1795." Full date from docket. Written while Adams was serving at the U.S. embassy at The Hague. The recipients were the brothers John Turner and Daniel Sargent.
at the Hague 1795
D. Sargent junr.
Dear Sir.
That you were well was intelligence as pleasing as I could possibly receive: that you were tolerably happy was not so satisfactory, to one who wishes you completely so - that you were yet single, accounts for the qualification to your happiness, and left me to hope that it will soon be removed.
After making so many experiments upon the hearts of women, and upon your own you will doubtless at last think it best to fix upon a preference. After so many visits (to speak in the language of our friend Jarvis's song) you will determine at length upon an home. Boston cannot lose its charms for its native inhabitants wherever their adopted dwelling place my be; and if the coolness of the climate should invite a temporary return, I still must wish that he warmth of sentiment may render the restoration permanent.
The punnology of your letter had its effect upon my visible faculties, and proved to me your attachment still to your old habits. I would have answered you in the same style, could I have done it as well as you. Despairing of that, I believe I must write to Wells, and request him to answer you in my behalf.
With the most cordial wishes that you may continue well, that you may be more than tolerably happy, and especially that you may soon be - not single. I remain (with a better privilege for the title than Yrandi) your affectionate friend.
John Q. Adams.
Messrs: J.T. & D. Sargent jr.
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